Music Distribution System

ABSTRACT

Systems for distributing music to a plurality of customers via the Internet provide each customer with a uniquely identified proprietary device for receiving, playing and recording music. A music server computer system is provided for distributing the music to the proprietary devices over the Internet. The system provides for tracking usage of the music on the proprietary devices and reporting the usage data over the Internet to the music server compute system. The system provides for the secure distribution of digital music content over the Internet to consumers in a manner that allows efficient and economical usage of the content by consumers, while providing adequate usage reporting to copyright owners and providing adequate copy protection to prohibit unauthorized usage.

This application is a divisional of Ser. No. 10/407,811 filed Apr. 4, 2003.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to systems for distributing music over a network, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to a system for distributing music via the Internet.

With the development of the Internet there have been a number of proposals for the distribution of music content. The ease of copying of music with modern digital technology, combined with consumer demand has led to a number of music distribution schemes which involve substantial unauthorized copying of music content. See for example the controversial Napster system described in A & M Records, Inc. v. Napster, Inc. (9th Cir., Apr. 3, 2001 opinion). Other “peer to peer” systems have evolved whereby consumers swap or share recorded music, again leading to a substantial amount of unauthorized copying.

The music industry, and mainly the major record labels who own most of the music content, have been engaged in an effort to develop a more satisfactory system for distribution of digital music, as is represented by the efforts known as the Secure Digital Music Initiative which is described at www.sdmi.org.

The failure to date of these various efforts to develop a commercially viable Internet-based music distribution system which is both satisfactory to consumers and protects the rights of copyright owners in the music is shown by the absence of any such system in today's marketplace.

Accordingly, there is a continuing need for an improved system for distribution of music over the Internet, and particularly for one which provides the technical means to protect the legal rights of music owners, while at the same time providing consumers with the desired content in an efficient and economical manner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a unique approach to music distribution systems which provides a technical means for solving many of the business concerns regarding protection of rights of music owners.

By the present system each consumer is provided with a proprietary hardware device in their home. This device has multiple functions, one of which is to receive and record digital music distributed from a server over the Internet to the various devices located in each user's home.

As is further described herein, the proprietary device also functions as a recorder/player for recording and playing back the user's own compact disc collection. Those novel features particularly related to the proprietary device are the subject of Applicant's copending application Ser. No. 10/406,821, filed Apr. 4, 2003, entitled “Combination Compact Disc Recorder And Player System”, the details of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The present application focuses upon the unique systems and methods for distribution of digital music over the Internet to such proprietary devices, which system is enabled by the use of the proprietary devices. These proprietary devices allow much greater control over the monitoring and reporting of music usage, while at the same time providing greatly enhanced consumer usability of the music.

In one embodiment a method of distributing music to a plurality of customers via the Internet includes steps of:

(a) providing each customer with a uniquely identified proprietary device for receiving, playing and recording music;

(b) providing a music server computer system for distributing the music to the proprietary devices over the Internet; and

(c) tracking usage of the music on the proprietary devices and reporting usage data over the Internet to the music server computer system.

In another embodiment of the invention a method of distributing music to a plurality of users via a communications network includes steps of:

(a) providing each user with a unique identifier associated with a specific device on which the user receives and records music;

(b) directing the music to the authorized devices over the communications network; and

(c) reporting data to copyright owners on the extent of distribution of each owner's music in step (b).

In yet another embodiment of the invention a method of distributing music to a plurality of customers over the Internet includes steps of:

(a) providing each customer with a proprietary device for receiving, storing, playing and recording music;

(b) providing a music server computer system for distributing the music to the proprietary devices over the Internet; and

(c) embedding a unique identifier in music stored on each proprietary device, the unique identifier corresponding to the specific proprietary device which stored the music, so that any subsequent unauthorized copying of the recorded music can be tracked to a responsible party in control of the specific proprietary device.

And yet another embodiment of music server computer system for distributing music over the Internet includes an Internet communication system, a music database containing music, an authorized units database containing information uniquely identifying units that are authorized to receive music from the music database and music server software. The music server software is operable to cause the music server computer system to review the information in the authorized units database to identify units authorized to receive music from the music database, and to transmit music only to authorized units listed in the authorized units database using the Internet communication system.

In another embodiment of the invention a music server computer system for tracking music distributed over the Internet includes an Internet communication system, a music database containing music, a download device identification database for storing information regarding devices receiving music from the music server computer system, and music server software. The music server software is operable to cause the music server computer system to transmit music over the Internet using the Internet communication system to one or more devices, and prior to transmitting that music to a particular device, to label the music to be downloaded to the particular device with information uniquely identifying the particular device, and to store the information uniquely identifying the particular device in the download device identification database.

In another embodiment of the invention a music server computer system for distributing music over the Internet includes an Internet communication system, a music database containing music and music program guides, a television program guide database containing information regarding television programs in one or more regional areas, a unit location database for storing regional location information for one or more authorized units, and music server software operable to cause the music server computer system to transmit music, music program guides, and television program guides over the Internet using the Internet communication system to one or more units.

In another embodiment of the invention a method of distributing music over the internet includes steps of:

storing music on a music server computer system;

storing information uniquely identifying units that are authorized to receive music from the music server computer system on the music server computer system;

reviewing the information stored on the music server computer system to identify units authorized to receive music from the music database; and

transmitting music only to authorized units listed on the music server computer system using the music server computer system.

In still another embodiment of the invention a method of tracking music distributed over the Internet includes steps of:

storing music on a music server computer system;

storing information regarding devices receiving music from the music server computer system on the music server computer system;

transmitting music over the Internet using the music server computer system to one or more devices; and

prior to transmitting music to a particular device,

-   -   labeling music to be downloaded to the particular device with         information uniquely identifying the particular device, and     -   storing the information uniquely identifying the particular         device on the music server computer system.

In another embodiment of the invention a method for distributing music over the Internet includes steps of:

-   -   storing music and music program guides on a music server         computer system;     -   storing information regarding television programs in one or more         regional areas on the music server computer system;     -   storing regional location information for one or more units on         the music server computer system; and     -   transmitting music, music program guides, and television program         guides over the Internet using the music server computer system         to one or more units.

To reduce the amount of time required to listen to and purchase new music, the system is operable to communicate and download new songs using the Internet. Various artists and record companies allow consumers to access songs and other material created by emerging artists absolutely free of charge on the Internet and the system of the present invention allows a consumer to take advantage of these opportunities.

To further enhance the ability of a user to listen to and purchase new music, the present invention includes a novel music server computer system that can be used by the combination recorder and player units of the present invention to listen to and download new music. The novel server includes a database for storing music and a streaming audio server program that can be used to simultaneously stream the stored music to multiple combination recorder and player units during broadcasts over the Internet. In exchange for a subscription fee, users may listen to the broadcasts and, when they hear a song that they like, they can download that song to their combination recorder and player unit. The subscription fee also provides the consumer with access to program guides containing detailed information regarding music broadcasts and a TV program guide covering local broadcasts of cable, satellite, or local stations, and including full program descriptions and reviews.

To ensure that the recording artists of the music stored on the music server receive the appropriate copyright royalty when music is downloaded to combination recorder and player units, each unit is operable to monitor and store information regarding the number of times a song has been downloaded from the music server, burned to a CD, or copied to an associated remote control unit. In addition, each unit is operable, at predetermined times, to automatically transmit this information to the music server computer, where it can be used to calculate the appropriate royalties for the recording artists. These royalties can then be paid using the subscription fees paid by the various users of the combination recorder and player units.

To ensure that music on the music server is not downloaded by users who have not paid the appropriate subscription fee and devices other than the combination recorder and player units of the present invention, the database on the music server also stores a list of unique identification numbers and ownership information for all combination recorder and player units that are authorized to listen to and download music from the music server. Other devices, such as conventional personal computers, that do not include one of the unique identification numbers cannot access the music server and listen to or download music from the music server.

To further enhance security with regard to improper copying of music downloaded onto the combination recorder and player units, the music server attaches a unique identification number to each song downloaded to those units. Each unit, in turn, includes its unique identification number with each song that is burned on a CD or transmitted to a remote control unit. As a result, if a song is improperly distributed over the Internet, via a burned CD or other any other means, the music server of the present invention can be used to identify the combination recorder and player unit that originally received the song. This is done by simply comparing the unique identification number of the song in question with the list of unique identification numbers stored on the music server and using the owner information associated with the matching unique identification number to identify the owner of the combination recorder and player unit that received the song.

To prevent music downloaded from the music server and burned onto a CD from being copied onto a personal computer, each combination recorder and player unit is operable to burn CDs using any one of the various personal computer copy prevention technologies known in the art. For example, CDs may be burned so that the audio on the CD are hidden from CD-ROM drives typically found on a personal computer or, alternatively, CDs may be burned so that the audio includes errors that cause clicks and pops to appear in any copies of the burned CD. As a result, personal computers cannot copy CDs burned by the combination recorder and player units of the present invention.

To reduce the possibility that the present invention will eliminate a consumer's desire to continue to purchase CDs from a conventional brick and mortar store, the streaming audio provided by the music server may be supplied in a compressed audio format, such as MP3, that is inferior to the quality of a digital audio recording on a CD. Thus, while users can easily listen to and download new music using the present system, they will still need to purchase CDs from conventional stores in order to obtain very high quality music recordings.

These and other objectives of the present invention will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, upon a reading of the following disclosure when taken in conjunction with the following drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the combination recorder and player system of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the combination recorder and player unit shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the remote control unit shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the recorder/player CPU system shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the remote control CPU system shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a music server computer system communicating with a plurality of recorder/player units over the Internet.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the music server computer system.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the music server memory.

FIG. 9 is a drawing showing one embodiment of the recorder/player unit of the present invention.

FIGS. 10-12 are screen shots generated by one embodiment of the remote control unit of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring to FIGS. 1-3 and FIG. 9, one embodiment of the present invention of a combination compact disc (CD) recorder and player system 10 includes a combination CD recorder and player unit 12 and a remote control unit 14. The recorder/player unit 12 includes a recorder/player computer system 16, which includes a recorder/player central processing unit (CPU) system 18, recorder/player communication system 20, a CD drive 22, recorder/player memory 24, a recorder/player speaker system 26, a copy request input mechanism 28, a recorder/player Internet communication system 30, a remote control docking system 32, and an X10 control system 50. The recorder/player unit 12 also includes novel recorder/player software 34 that is used to control the unit 12. The remote control unit 14 includes a remote control computer system 36, which includes a remote control CPU system 38, a remote control communication system 40, remote control memory 42, a remote control speaker system 44, an input/output device 46, an infrared system 48, a remote control Internet communication system 47, and an X-10 control system 50. The remote control unit 14 also includes novel remote control software 52 that is used to control the unit 14.

The Recorder/Player Unit 12

The recorder/player CPU system 18 is a conventional computer CPU system and is operable to execute instructions received from the recorder/player software 34. Referring to FIG. 4, the CPU system 18 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 54, a fan 56, a motherboard 58, ROM 60, RAM 62, a PC power supply 64, and an operating system 66. The type of CPU 54, fan 56, motherboard 58, power supply 64, and operating system 66 may vary depending upon the application. For example, in one embodiment the operating system 66 is a Windows XP Home Edition operating system. Other operating systems may be used as well. In addition, the amount of ROM 60 and RAM 62 will also vary depending upon the application. Accordingly, a variety of different components may be used in the CPU system 18. The selection of the components to use in the CPU system 18 is well within the ability of one skilled in the art and will not be discussed in further detail. Regardless of what components are used, however, the CPU system 18 must be able to execute any instructions received from the recorder/player software 34.

In one embodiment, the combination recorder and player unit 12 includes a Intel Pentium 4 processor, running at 2 gigahertz, a Shuttle XPC SB51G Mini Bear Bones System, which includes a front fire wire 1394 and USB2.0 Interface, 256 megabytes of PC, 2100 (266 megahertz) DDR (Double Data Rate) memory. In addition, the Unit 12 includes an integrated savage graphics card, 5.1 channel audio, and 10/100 local area networks (LAN) network card. The 5.1 channel audio card is the Realtek ACL 6500 sound card and the 10/100 LAN network card is Realtek 8100 B network card. The system also includes Aluminum Chassis with 200 watts of power and a Shuttle I.C.E. heat pipe cooling system.

The recorder/player communication system 20 is a wireless communication system that allows the unit 12 and the remote control unit 14 to communicate with one another. In one embodiment, the communication system 20 operates according to the IEEE 802.11b Wireless Networking standard. Accordingly, it includes an 802.11b card and its associated software. In alternative embodiments, the communication system 20 may operate according to the 802.11b Wireless Networking standard, the “Bluetooth” standard or any other standard or proprietary wireless techniques. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the remote control unit 14 over the 802.11b communication system is the only user interface for the unit 12.

The CD drive 22 is operable to read and write to compact discs in a variety of formats, including uncompressed and compressed audio formats. The CD drive 22 can read digital audio from conventional audio CDs and can also read .wav and .mp3 files from conventional data CDs. In a similar manner, the CD drive 22 can write digital audio to audio CDs in conventional CD audio format and can write .wav files and .mp3 files to data CDs. In one embodiment, the CD drive 22 is an Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE)/AT Attachment Packet Interface (ATAPI) CD recordable drive. In another embodiment, CD drive 22 is a 32X12X40X12 DVD and CDRW combination drive.

The recorder/player memory 24 is operable to store digital audio files in a variety of uncompressed and compressed audio formats, including original CD audio format, .wav files, .mp3 files, or any other conventional audio format. In one embodiment, the memory 24 is an 80 Gigabyte IDE/Ultra Direct Memory Access (UDMA) hard drive. In another embodiment the memory 24 is a 80 Gigabyte Ultra ATA/100/7200 RPM hard drive and includes digital audio from a number of CDs that has been preloaded on the unit 12. Memory systems are well known in the art and any one of a variety of different types of memory may be used as well.

The recorder/player memory 24 is also operable to store information that can be used to control multiple conventional pieces of audio and video equipment. For example, most TVs, VCRs, DVD players, and conventional CD players can be controlled remotely using infrared control signals. The recorder/player memory 24 includes the information necessary for the remote control unit 14 to use to generate these control signals using its infrared system 48. This information can be transferred, as needed, from the recorder/player memory 24 to the remote control memory 42, where it can be used by the remote control software 52 to generate the appropriate control signals.

The recorder/player memory 24 is further operable to store information identifying audio or video equipment based on the location of the equipment in a house. Accordingly, the recorder/player memory 24 includes information identifying audio or video equipment located in one or more rooms of a house and the information necessary to control these components. Again, this information can be transferred to the remote control memory 42, as needed, where it can be used by the remote control software 52 to generate the appropriate control signals.

The recorder/player speaker system 26 is operable to play audio output by the unit 12 and includes two low range speakers, 2 high range speakers, 2 speaker enclosures, and 2 internal audio amplifiers inside the speaker enclosures. The speaker system 26 also includes a sound card, which, in turn, includes a digital signal processing chip and a digital to analog converter. The sound card is used to convert digital audio from the memory 24 or from the CD drive 22 into analog audio so it can be output by the speakers in the speaker system 26. The sound card may be integrated onto the motherboard 58 of the CPU system 18 or it may be a separate card. Sound cards are well known in the art and any one of these devices may be used with the present system. For example, in one embodiment, the sound card is a savage graphics sound card known in the art.

The recorder/player speaker system 26 may also include additional speakers, which may be located remotely from the recorder/player unit 12. These remote speakers may be connected to the recorder/player unit 12 using any conventional means, including conventional speaker wires, wireless connections, or using the MaGIC communication technology developed by the applicant of the present invention. MaGIC, which stands for Media-accelerated Global Information Carrier, is an open architecture digital connection system developed by Gibson Guitar Corp, the assignee of the present application. The operation of the MaGIC system is described in detail in an engineering specification dated Jan. 22, 2002 and entitled Media-accelerated Global Information Carrier, Engineering Specification, Revision 2.4. The disclosure contained in that specification is hereby incorporated by reference into this application. The specification may be accessed at the following web address, http://magic.gibson.com/specification.html. In addition, the MaGIC system is described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,353,169, issued to Juszkiewicz et al. on Mar. 5, 2002 and entitled “Universal Audio Communications and Control System and Method.” The disclosure of the '169 patent is also hereby incorporated by reference into this application.

The copy request input mechanism 28 is operable to allow a user to input a copy command into the unit 12. In one embodiment, the mechanism 28 is simply a conventional push-button. A variety of other input mechanisms could be used as well. For example, the mechanism 28 might be a touch sensitive display integrated in the unit 12 that displays an electronic “Copy” button, which can be pressed by a user using a stylus.

The recorder/player Internet communication system 30 is operable to allow the unit 12 to communicate with the Internet. Internet communication systems are well known in the art and any one of these systems may be used. Conventional Internet communication systems include, among others, a modem with its associated software, a cable modem and its associated software, or a DSL modem with its associated software. The Internet communication system 30 may also include hardware and software that allow the unit 12 to communicate with the Internet using wireless technologies.

The remote control docking system 32 is used to connect the remote control unit 14 to the recorder/player unit 12. When the remote control unit 14 is connected to the unit 12, the docking system 32 supplies power to the remote control unit 14 and allows the unit 14 to conserve its batteries. The docking system 32 also includes the components necessary for charging the batteries in the remote control unit 14 and is operable to do so when the unit 14 is inserted into the docking system 32. The docking system 32 can also be used to charge spare batteries for the remote control unit 14. In one embodiment, the remote control docking system 32 is a USB cradle for Dell Axium X5 Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) that includes a power DC connector and a battery charge slot for charging either 1440 MAH and 3400 MAH batteries.

The X-10 control system 50 is operable to generate control signals that can be used to control light and appliances typically found in a home. The X-10 system 50 uses existing 110 Volt electrical wiring in a home to control lights and other appliances. The system 50 includes transmitters, which send a coded low voltage signal over the 110 V wiring, and receivers, which are plugged into the 100V power supply and will see the coded low voltage signal. The receivers are designed, however, to only respond to signals that include the appropriate address. In other words, each receiver has a unique address and will only respond to signals that include that address. Up to 256 different addresses can be used with this system. X-10 technology is known in the art and detailed information regarding this technology may be found on the Internet. For example, detailed information regarding X-10 technology and products may be obtained from Smarthome, Inc., a company that specializes in home automation, located at 16542 Millikan Avenue, Irvine, Calif. 92606-5027.

The recorder/player software 34 is operable to cause the recorder/player computer system 16 to record digital audio from conventional audio CDs to the recorder/player memory 24, to play digital audio from conventional audio CDs and memory 24, and to create, or “burn,” new CDs using audio stored in memory 24. The software 34 is also operable to cause the computer system 16 to record .wav and .mp3 files from conventional data CDs to the memory 24. The software 34 is written in C++, but could be written in a variety of other conventional programming languages.

The software 34 is further operable to cause the computer system 16, at predetermined times, to automatically download to memory 24 additional digital audio, in .wav, .mp3, or other conventional formats, program guides for music broadcast over the Internet, and TV guides for local broadcasts of cable, satellite, local stations. The music broadcast may include both older music content as well as the latest hits. The program guides include information regarding songs that will be “broadcast” via the Internet for a week in advance. The TV guides include recommendations, full program descriptions and reviews. In one embodiment, the TV guide program is similar to the scrolling TV program guide that appears on designated cable TV channels and is used by many cable companies, such as Comcast, to provide their customers with programming information. The music program guides will appear and operate in a similar manner as well.

The software 34 is still further operable to automatically monitor the number of times that a song is played by the unit 12 and, at predetermined times, to automatically send this information to a subscription service using the Internet. The information sent to the subscription service may also include information regarding the number of times a song has been copied to a recordable CD by the recorder/player unit 12 or the number of times a song has been copied to the remote control unit 14 associated with the unit 12. The software 34 may also be operable to prevent copying of a song to any device other than recordable CDs that have been inserted into the CD drive 22 or the remote control unit 14 associated with the unit 12. Finally, the software 34 may be operable to prevent any device from accessing audio stored on the recorder/player unit 12 using the Internet.

To perform the various functions of recording, playing, and burning CDs, the software 34 includes several modules. The first module is a CD audio “ripper” module that is capable of pulling digital audio off of a conventional audio CD and storing it in memory 24. The ripper module can store the digital audio as a .wav file, an .mp3 file, or any other conventional audio format. In one embodiment, the ripper module uses standard Windows XP WindowsMedia 9 Active-X control to read audio from audio CDs. There are a variety of other techniques for reading and storing audio ripped from an audio CD and any one of these techniques may be used as well.

The second module is a CD player module, also referred to as Virtual Player module that is capable of playing digital audio from a conventional CD and from the memory 24. The Virtual Player module is used by an audio engine to play digital audio and includes a circular buffer, which is used for real-time sources such as streamed Internet or auxiliary input, to provide limited transport control, and to maintain a limited history of songs. The module is used with MP3 sources to provide high-quality, auditioned fast-forward and rewind features. The second module also includes a Direct-X play engine, which is included with the Windows XP operating system referenced above. The play engine accesses audio transparently from the Virtual Player.

The third module, the CD burner module, is operable to burn new CDs using the audio stored in memory 24. The CD burner module can burn CDs in multiple conventional formats, including .wav and .mp3 formats. In one embodiment, the CD burner module uses a standard XP Image Mastering Applications Programming Interface (IMAPI) Software Development Kit (SDK) to burn audio CDs. In alternative embodiments, other burner modules may be used as well. The CD burner module is also operable to burn CDs using any one of the variety of personal computer copy prevention technologies known in the art so they cannot be copied by a personal computer. In one embodiment, CDs are burned so the audio files cannot be seen by the CD-ROM drive of a personal computer and cannot be copied. In other embodiments, CDs are burned so that the audio on the burned CD includes errors that cause clicks and pops to appear in any copies of the burned CD. Several companies provide copy protection systems and detailed information regarding these systems can be found on the Internet. For example, Macrovision, Sony, and Sunncomm all provide such systems and information regarding these companies is available on the Internet.

The software 34 further includes an MP3 encoder module, an MP3 decoder module, and a database module. The MP3 encoder module is operable to compress digital audio from a conventional audio CD into .mp3 file format and the MP3 decoder is operable to decompress digital audio that has been compressed in .mp3 file format. In one embodiment, the MP3 encoder module, using a publicly available code library known as “Blade,” encodes a stream of CD format PCM audio into 128-256 BPS Moving Pictures Expert Group (MPEG) format compressed audio. In alternative embodiments, other types of known compression technologies may be used as well. In this embodiment, the MP3 decoder module decodes a stream of MPEG 3 format compressed audio and converts it into CD format PCM audio, i.e., the inverse of the MP3 encoder.

The database module is used to store digital audio as a database in the memory 24. The database includes multiple indexes and uses standard B-tree technology to store the audio. Database modules, such as Access, IBM DB2, and Oracle are well known in the art and any one of these database modules may be used as well.

The software 34 also includes a CDDB module that is operable to find the names of CDs and songs on those CDs by accessing a well-known database of that information on the Internet. A company called Gracenote in Berkeley, Calif. maintains this database. The names of CDs and songs may also be stored on an internal database in memory 24. In this case, the CDDB module accesses this database to obtain the desired information.

The unit 12 is capable of being operated in several different modes. In a first mode, which is referred to as an Automatic Copy Mode, the unit 12 will automatically copy the digital audio, .wav, or .mp3 files into the recorder/player memory 24 when an audio CD or data CD is inserted into the CD drive 22. In a second mode, which is referred to as the One-Button Copy Mode, the unit 12 only copies information into the recorder/player memory 24 after a user has input a copy command into the unit 12 using the copy request input mechanism 28.

In the second mode, the copy request input mechanism 28, which is a conventional push-button or switch in this example, can be used by a consumer to automatically copy, by pressing the push-button, a conventional audio CD (not shown) that has been inserted into the CD drive 22 into the recorder/player memory 24. When the button 28 is pressed, the recorder/player software 34 causes the recorder/player computer system 16 to copy the digital audio stored on the CD to memory 24. By default, the computer system 16 saves all digital audio in an uncompressed format. For example, in one embodiment, the computer system 16 saves the digital audio from the CD in conventional wave file format, i.e., with a .wav file extension. The default setting can be changed as desired so the unit 12 can save the digital audio in any other conventional format as well. For example, the default setting can be changed so that the digital audio is saved in a compressed format, such as conventional MP3 file format. The remote control unit 14 is used to change the default setting for the unit 12 and this process is discussed in detail below in conjunction with the detailed discussion of the remote control unit 14.

The copy request input mechanism 28 can also be used to automatically copy .wav files and .mp3 files from conventional data CDs. If a conventional data CD is placed in the CD drive 22 and the copy button 28 is pressed, the recorder/player software 34 causes the recorder/player computer system 16 to copy any files on the CD to memory 24. If the files are .wav files, the computer system 16 saves the files in memory 24 as .wav files. If the files are .mp3 files, the system 16 saves the files in memory 24 as .mp3 files. Once again, this is the default setting for the unit 12 and this setting can be changed. For example, the default settings can be changed so that .wav files are automatically compressed into .mp3 format before they are stored in memory 24.

As mentioned previously, the recorder/player computer system 16 is also operable, again under the control of the recorder/player software 34, to play conventional audio CDs. As was the case with copying CDs, the unit 12 is capable of playing CDs in two different modes. In an Automatic Play Mode, the unit 12 automatically plays any CD that is inserted into the CD drive 22. The unit 12 can also be set up so that it does not play a CD inserted into the CD drive 22 until the unit 12 receives a play command, described in more detail below, from the remote control unit 14. In addition, the unit 12 can be set up so that it automatically copies all of the digital audio to the recorder/player memory 24 and then begins playing the CD. All of these features can be adjusted using the remote control unit 14.

To burn a CD, a user uses the remote control unit 14, in a manner that is described in more detail below, to input a burn command to the unit 12. The burn command contains information identifying the songs that are to be burned onto the CD and the format that is to be used during the burning process. The default setting for the format is compressed MP3. This setting can be changed using the remote control unit 14, however, and the computer system 16 can burn CDs in original uncompressed digital audio CD format.

To make the appearance of the recorder/player unit 12 more appealing, the housing of the unit 12 includes features that are found on an old-fashioned jukebox. For example, the housing may include animated bubble tubes, changing color columns, a revealed CD changing mechanism, conventional input buttons typically found on a traditional jukebox, multiple pages containing listings of CDs and the songs on those CDs, or any of a variety of other jukebox features typically included on such devices. For example, the unit 12 may be constructed to mimic the features of a Wurlitzer Model 1015 jukebox. A generic drawing of one embodiment of the housing of the unit 12 is shown in FIG. 9.

The Remote Control Unit 14

The remote control CPU system 38 is a conventional computer CPU system, similar to the recorder/player CPU system 18, and is operable to execute instructions received from the remote control software 52. Referring to FIG. 5, the CPU system 38 includes a CPU 68, ROM 70, RAM 72, a motherboard 74, an operating system 76, and batteries 78. As was the case with the recorder/player CPU system 18, these components may vary depending on the application. In one embodiment, for example, the remote control unit 14 is a conventional Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), the Dell Axium X5 manufacturer by Dell Corporation. The Axium X5 may include an Intell XSCALE processor operating at 400 megahertz or 300 megahertz, 32 megabytes or 64 megabytes of CDRAM, and 32 or 48 megabytes of flash Rom. The Axium also includes a Microsoft Pocket PC 2002 Premium Edition Operating System, Internet Explorer, a removal lithium ion battery, and optional high capacity lithium ion battery. The Axium X5 also includes a stereo headphone connector and infrared data associate (irDA) port for outputting infrared signals and optional 802.11b wireless Compact Flash (CF) card for network or Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) activity. The Axium also includes a built in microphone and speaker system.

The remote control communication system 40 is identical to the recorder/player communication system 20 discussed in detail previously. Thus, it is a wireless communication system that allows the unit 12 and the remote control unit 14 to communicate with one another using the 802.11b Wireless Networking standard. When a PDA is used for the remote control unit 14, the remote control communication system 40 is integrated into the PDA as indicated above.

The remote control Internet communication system 47 is identical to the recorder/player Internet communication system 30 discussed in detail previously. Thus, it allows the unit 14 to communicate with the Internet and may also include hardware and software that allow the unit 14 to communicate with the Internet using wireless technologies. As was the case with the remote control communication system 40, the remote control Internet communication system 47 can be integrated into a PDA.

The remote control memory 42 is capable of storing digital audio, in .wav, .mp3, or any other conventional audio format. In one embodiment, the memory 42 is 64 MB of SDRAM. The amount of memory required varies from application to application and is dependent upon the amount of digital audio to be stored on the remote control unit 14. Memory systems are well known in the art and any one of a variety of different types of memory may be used as well. As indicated previously, the remote control memory 42 is also capable of storing information that can be used to control multiple conventional pieces of audio and video equipment, information identifying audio or video equipment located in one or more rooms of a house, and the information necessary to control these components.

The remote control speaker system 44 is operable to play audio stored in memory 42 or streaming audio received from the recorder/player unit 12. In one embodiment, the speaker system 44 includes conventional headphone components and can be used to listen to audio using a conventional headphone. In another embodiment, the speaker system 44 is the speaker system found in the Dell Axium X5 PDA. As was the case with the speaker system 26 on the unit 12, the speaker system 44 includes a sound card to convert digital audio into analog audio so it can be played by the speaker system 26.

The input/output device 46 is operable to display various menus to a user and to allow the user to input various commands, such as a copy command, play command, or a burn command. In one embodiment, the input/output device 46 is a 3.5″ touch sensitive, full color, transflective display with 320×240 pixel resolution. In alternative embodiments, other types of input/output devices may be used.

The infrared system 48 is operable to generate infrared control signals and can be used to control various conventional pieces of audio and video equipment found in the typical home. For example, the infrared system 48 can be used, in conjunction with the remote control software 52, to control conventional TVs, stereos, DVD players, and VCR players. PDAs use different infrared communication protocols than older conventional TV and audio/video remote control systems and the infrared system 48 in the present invention is adapted to use the appropriate infrared communication protocols. In alternative embodiments, the infrared system 48 may include commercial off-the-shelf components that are known in the art that allow one to modify the infrared system of a PDA so that it can be used to control conventional TVs and other audio/video equipment.

The remote control software 52 can be used by a user to copy CDs into memory 24 on the unit 12 or into memory 42 on the unit 14, to play digital audio on CDs in the CD drive 22, memory 42, or memory 24, and to burn CDs using the CD drive. To allow a user to perform these various functions, the software 52 generates a series of screens or menus that allows a user to input commands to perform these functions. For example, in one embodiment, the software 52 generates the screens shown in FIGS. 10-12. The screen shown in FIG. 10 can be used to input a request to copy a song from a CD onto the recorder/player unit 12 or to play a song on a CD, and the screen shown in FIG. 12 can be used to copy or “burn” a song from the recorder/player unit 12 to a CD. FIG. 11 includes a screen that is displayed when a song is being copied from a CD onto the recorder/player unit 12.

The applicant contemplates that the software 52 can be programmed to generate a variety of different screens depending on a specific application. Accordingly, in an alternative embodiment, the software 52 generates a main menu on the input/output device 46 that includes a “Copy audio” button, a “Play audio” button, and a “Burn audio” button.

When the “Copy audio” button is pressed, the software displays a second screen that includes a first button, which reads “Copy audio to recorder/player”, and a second button, “Copy audio to remote control.” When the first button is pressed by a user using a stylus, the software 52 sends a copy command to the recorder/player unit 12 requesting that digital audio from a CD in the CD drive 22 be copied into memory 24. In response, the recorder/player software 34 copies all of the audio on the CD in the CD drive 22 into memory 24. When the second button is pressed, the software 52 displays a screen that includes two buttons. One button reads, “Copy audio from CD” and the other reads, “Copy audio from recorder/player memory.” When the “Copy audio from CD” button is pressed, the software 52 sends a copy command to the unit 12 requesting that digital audio on a CD in the CD drive 22 be copied into the remote control memory 42. In response, the recorder/player software 34 copies audio from a CD and sends it to the unit 14, where it is copied into the remote control memory 24 by the remote control software 52. When the “Copy audio from recorder/player memory” button is pressed, the software 52 sends a copy command to the unit 12 requesting that audio stored in the recorder/player memory 24 be copied into the remote control memory 42. In response, the recorder/player software 34 sends audio from the recorder/player memory 24 to the unit 14 and the remote control software 52 copies the audio into the remote control memory 42.

When either copy button is pressed, a format screen will be displayed that includes several formatting buttons, including a “.wav format” button, and a “.mp3 format” button. The user selects the desired format and the software 52 stores the audio accordingly. If a compressed format, such as MP3 is selected, the software 52 uses the MP3 encoder module to compress the audio. In addition, when either copy button is pressed, the software 52 displays a series of screens that allow the user to select the songs to be copied by the software 52.

When the “Play audio” button is pressed, the software 52 displays a screen that includes a “Play CD in CD drive” button, a “Play audio stored on recorder/player” button, and a “Play audio stored on remote control” button. When either of the first two buttons are pressed, the software 52 sends a play command to the unit 12 and the recorder/player software 36 plays the appropriate audio. The play command includes information indicating that audio from a CD or audio stored in memory should be played. By default, if audio from a CD or from the recorder/player memory 24 is selected, the software 52 plays the audio using the recorder/player speaker system 26. If audio stored on the remote is selected, the software 52 plays the audio using the remote control speaker system 44.

Regardless of which play button is pressed, the software 52 also displays a series of screens that allow a user to select the audio to be played. In one embodiment, the screens include information that is typically included on a conventional jukebox, e.g., a CD will have an associated number, for example, 46, and the songs on the CD will have associated numbers, for example, 01 for the first song, 02 for the second song, etc. To select a specific song on a specific CD, a user simply inputs, using number buttons displayed on the input/output device, the desired CD number and song number.

When the “burn audio” button is pressed, the remote control software 52 sends a burn command to the recorder/player software 34. In response to the burn command, the recorder/player software 34 burns audio onto a CD in the CD drive 22. As was the case with the copying commands, the software 52 displays a format screen that allows a user to specify the desired format for the burning process. CDs can be burned in original CD format, .wav format, or .mp3 format. In addition, the user is allowed to select the songs to be burned by using series of screens that allow the user to select the desired songs. As was the case with the play commands, in one embodiment, the screens include information that is typically included on a conventional jukebox, e.g., a CD will have an associated number, for example, 46, and the songs on the CD will have associated numbers, for example, 01 for the first song, 02 for the second song, etc. To select a specific song to burn on a CD, a user simply inputs, using number buttons displayed on the input/output device, the desired CD number and song number.

Internet Based Music Distribution Service

As noted above, the recorder/player unit 12 is constructed to receive and record audio over an Internet communication system 30. The recorder/player units 12 provide a unique system for receiving audio that allows a much different business model to be followed as compared to the business models which can be achieved using non-proprietary receivers such as conventional television sets or personal computers.

The use of proprietary hardware, in combination with a system of uniquely identifying each recorder/player unit 12, allows the proprietor of that hardware and of the associated music service to build in a proprietary protection scheme to uniquely control the overall system. This solves a number of significant business issues which heretofore have prevented the satisfactory achievement of an Internet based music downloading service.

A primary issue which must be dealt with from the business standpoint in order to establish a successful Internet based music service is to protect the copyrighted music content belonging to the record labels which produce the compact disc recordings and to track, report and pay royalties on the usage of this music content in a manner satisfactory to the record labels. This includes tracking and payment of “mechanical royalties” to the underlying copyright holders for additional copies which may be made by burning CDs, and also includes the tracking and payment of performance royalties to the performing rights societies such as BMI and ASCAP.

Another aspect of this copy protection is provided by encoding the digital audio which can be burned onto a recordable CD by the recorder/player unit 12 such that the recorded CD cannot subsequently be duplicated in a playable form. As discussed above, the copy protection may be implemented in any number of ways, including by burning audio so that it is hidden from personal computer CD drives and cannot be copied or so that it includes errors that cause clicks or pops to appear in copies of burned CDs, which prevents usable copies from being made.

A related issue is to provide the ability to track and identify the source of any unauthorized copies which are somehow made by hackers who break whatever copy prevention mechanisms are provided by the recorder/player unit 12. The tracking of unauthorized music is accomplished by the music server system described below by “watermarking” the recordings with a unique identification associated with the specific recorder/player unit 12 which records the music, so that if subsequent unauthorized copies are distributed, the source of them can be identified by examination of this unique identification. Privacy of the users of the recorder/player units 12 is provided in that the operator of the music server system maintains the database of recorder/player unit identifications and associated owners' names, addresses, etc. and can control the dissemination of customer identification only upon an appropriate showing of misuse of the licensed content by the customer.

Still another issue of major concern to the record labels is to minimize the erosion of CD sales. This is accomplished in the system described below by transmitting the audio only in a compressed reduced quality format such as .mp3 as opposed to the uncompressed files sold in retail record stores in CD format. As a result, the music which is received over the Internet music service by the player/recorder units 12, and which is subsequently burned by those player/recorder units 12 onto CDs and/or subsequently saved to memory on the recorder/player unit 12 or on the hand held remote control unit 14, is of a lower quality than the music contained on a conventional CD which would be purchased at a retail record store.

Thus the music server system described below in combination with an installed base of the recorder/player units 12 effectively provides a system which can replace commercial radio, but which cannot ultimately replace the supply of the highest quality digitally recorded music found on CDs which are manufactured by the record labels and sold in conventional record stores.

The present system will allow its operator to broadcast multiple channels of music content similar to multiple radio station broadcasts, except that the broadcasts are over the Internet and can only be received by consumers who own one of the proprietary player/recorder units 12 and who are currently authorized after payment of suitable monthly fees and usage charges.

Each individual subscriber who has possession of one of the player/recorder units 12 will be charged for their own usage of the received music content and the collective usage of all users will be reported by the operator of the Internet based music service system to the record labels along with payments to the record labels. Information about individual consumers will only be provided to a record label or other content owner in the event of a showing of misuse of the music content, which can be tracked due to the unique identification embedded in the recorded music received by and stored on the recorder/player unit 12.

By providing a system as described above, the record labels can be assured of the protection of their own business models, thus providing incentive to the record labels to license the use of their music content for distribution over the Internet based music server system described below. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, in the absence of the contractual cooperation of the major record labels, it will be impossible for any operator to legally provide an Internet based music server system that has the content customers want.

Referring to FIGS. 6-8, the present invention includes a novel music server computer system 100 that can be connected to a plurality of combination recorder and player units 12 over the Internet. The music server 100 includes a music server CPU system 102, a music server Internet communication system 104, music server memory 106, music server input/output 108, and music server software 110.

The music server CPU system 102 is a conventional server CPU system well known in the art and is operable to process instructions and data in order to perform various functions. The CPU system 102 includes a central processing unit (CPU), ROM, RAM, and an operating system. As is well known in the art, the CPU and operating system may vary depending upon the application. In a similar manner, the amount of ROM and RAM used in the music server 100 may vary as well.

The music server Internet communication system 104 is operable to allow the music server 100 to communicate with the Internet. Internet communication systems are well known in the art and any one of these systems may be used. Conventional Internet communication systems include, among others, a modem with its associated software, a cable modem and its associated software, or a DSL modem with its associated software. The Internet communication system 104 of the present invention includes a cable modem and also includes hardware and software that allows the music server 100 to communicate with the Internet using wireless technologies.

The music server memory 106 is operable to store digital audio files in a variety of compressed audio formats, including the well-known .mp3 file format. Although in the preferred embodiment, the audio files are stored as .mp 3 files, the audio files could be stored in other conventional formats as well, including uncompressed audio formats such as the well-known .wav file format. Memory systems are well known in the art and any one of a variety of different types of memory may be used as well. For example, the music server memory 106 may be simply a hard drive system in some applications.

Referring to FIG. 8, the music server memory 106 includes a music database 112, an authorized units database 114, a music usage database 116, a recording artist royalty database 118, and a TV program guide database 120. The music database 112 includes digital audio that can be transmitted to multiple units 12 using the music server 100. In a preferred embodiment, the digital audio is stored and broadcast in .mp3 compressed audio format. The music database 112 also includes program guides containing information regarding digital music broadcasts currently being broadcast, as well as the dates and times of past and future digital music broadcasts by the music server 100.

The authorized units database 114 includes information regarding combination recorder and player units 12 authorized to receive digital music broadcasts. This information includes a unique unit identification number and ownership identification information, such as name of owner, address, telephone number, billing address, etc., for each authorized unit 12. The unique identification number may vary from application to application. In general, however, this number should include sufficient information to uniquely identify the unit 12 associated with the number and, at the same time, make it difficult to determine by unauthorized users. As such, it should include some combination of alphanumeric characters and, in some cases, may be case-sensitive. For example, in one embodiment, the unique identification number might be GGC984201aS21BD, where the GGC indicates that Gibson Guitar Corporation owns the unit and the inclusion of various random, case-sensitive alpha-numeric characters makes the identification number difficult to determine by unauthorized users. The information stored in the authorized units database 114 also includes detailed information identifying the location of the authorized units on the Internet, including the Internet Protocol (IP) address and Internet domain for the units.

The music usage database 116 includes information regarding the number of times that a song has been downloaded from the music server 100 to a unit 12. This database includes information identifying the name of each song that is downloaded from the music server 100, the number of times that the downloaded songs are copied to a compact disc (CD) by a unit 12, and the number of times that the downloaded songs are copied to a remote control unit 14. The database can also include usage information on the number of times the music is played back by the recorder/player unit 12 or the remote 14. This information is tracked by the recorder/player unit 12 and is periodically automatically transmitted back to the music server computer system 100.

The recording artist royalty database 118 includes information regarding the recording artists, or the persons or entities, who own the songs stored in the music database 112, including the name and address of the recording artists, and the royalties to be paid for the downloading of any songs stored on the music server 100. The royalty database 118 also includes information identifying where royalties for each artist should be sent. This information may include bank routing and account numbers and may be used to automatically transmit royalty payments to the various artists that have songs on the music server 100.

The TV program guide database 120 includes information regarding programming on cable, satellite, and local television stations. As is well known in the art, this programming may vary from location to location. Accordingly, information regarding various regions in the United States, or other countries for that matter, may be included in the database 120. The information regarding the programming may vary as well, but, in general, it will include the date and time programs will be broadcast, full program descriptions, reviews of various programs, and recommendations regarding various programs.

The music server input/output 108 includes conventional input/output devices and is operable to input and output information from the music server 100. In one embodiment, the music server input/output 108 includes a conventional keyboard, a mouse, and a visual display unit. The input/output 108 may vary from application to application and include other conventional input/output devices.

The music server software 110 is operable to cause the music server 100 to transmit, at predetermined times, streaming audio from the music database 112 to the units 12 using the music server Internet communication system 104. For example, the music server software 110 may be configured to transmit streaming audio daily, weekly, or monthly. The music server software 110 may also be configured to transmit streaming audio continuously as well.

The audio may also be transmitted in a complete file format, rather than as streaming audio.

In addition to the streaming audio, the music server software 110 is operable to cause the music server 100 to transmit program guides describing the streaming audio being broadcast from the music database 112 to the units 12 over the Internet. These program guides include listings of all of the songs being broadcast by the music server software 110, including information regarding the names of songs, the associated artists, the names of CDs containing the songs, and the lengths of the songs. The program guides also include information regarding when the music server software 110 will broadcast certain songs over the Internet, including the date and time when the song will be broadcast. For example, the music program guide may include information regarding all songs that will be broadcast for the week following a particular date.

The music server software 110 is also operable to cause the music server 100 to transmit TV program guides from the TV program guide database 120 to the units 12 over the Internet in conjunction with the streaming audio. These TV program guides include detailed information regarding programming on cable, satellite, and local television stations and includes recommendations, full program descriptions, and reviews.

The music server software 110 is operable to cause the music server 100 to store detailed information regarding music broadcast over the Internet in the music usage database 116. The detailed information may vary, but, in general, will include the number of times a song is downloaded from the music server 100 to a unit 12, the number of times a song is copied from a unit 12 to a compact disc (CD), and the number of times a song is copied from a unit 12 to a remote control unit 14. The detailed information also may include information identifying where a song is downloaded, including the date and time the song is downloaded and the unique identification number of the unit 12 receiving the song.

The music server software 110 is further operable to cause the music server 100 to only transmit music stored in the music database 112 to authorized units 12. The software 110 achieves this function by only sending streaming audio to units 12 that are authorized to receive music broadcasts. To ensure that the music is broadcast only to units 12 authorized to receive the music broadcast, i.e., the owner of the unit 12 has paid the required subscription fee, the music server software 110 obtains a listing of all of the authorized units 12 from the authorized units database 114 and then, using that listing, broadcasts streaming audio to those units 12.

The music server software 110 is operable to cause the music server 100 to prevent unauthorized units and other devices, such as personal computers, from accessing music on the music server 100. If a device other than an authorized unit attempts to access the music server 100, the music server software 110 requests identification information, i.e., a unique identification number, from that device. If the device fails to provide identification information associated with an authorized unit, the music server software 110 denies that device access to the music server 100 and the music database 112.

The music server software 110 can be operated in two different modes. In a first mode, referred to as an Automatic Broadcast mode, the music server software 110 automatically broadcasts music over the Internet to the units 12. In a second mode, referred to as Request Broadcast mode, the music server software 110 only broadcasts music to units 12 that have requested to receive the broadcast. In this mode, the music server software 110 receives a broadcast request from a requesting unit 12. The broadcast request includes information uniquely identifying the requesting unit 12, i.e., the units' unique identification number, and is used by the music server software 110 to determine if the requesting unit 12 is authorized to receive the broadcast. The music server software 110 compares the unique unit identification information received from the requesting unit 12 to the unit identification information stored in the authorized units database 114. If the received information matches, the music server software 110 determines that the requesting unit 12 is authorized and broadcasts the music to the requesting unit 12. If not, the music server software 110 sends a response back to the requesting unit 12 indicating that the unit is not authorized to receive the broadcast.

The music server software 110 is operable to cause the music server 100 to label all songs downloaded to an authorized unit 12 with that unit's unique identification number. In a preferred embodiment, the unique identification number is attached to the song in a manner that prevents it from being removed without damaging the song. As a result, if a user removes the unique identification number the song can no longer be played. By labeling downloaded songs in this manner, the music server 100 is able to track songs downloaded to a particular unit 12. If a song downloaded to a particular unit 12 is improperly placed on another server or computer on the Internet, the label attached to the song can be used to identify the source of the song. The purpose of the labeling is to encourage users not to improperly copy songs without paying the required royalty to the appropriate recording artist. In addition, if a user chooses to improperly copy songs, this labeling system allows the appropriate authorities to identify that user so he can be forced to pay any necessary royalty. Alternatively, the unique identifier could be embedded in the downloaded songs by the recorder/player unit 12 when the music is downloaded or when it is burned onto a CD or otherwise recorded.

Advantages of the Recorder/Player System and the Music Distribution System

The recorder/player units 12 and the music server computer system 100 described above provide an overall system which allows customers to copy all of the music they have collected in a single easy to use location and to be able to play it back virtually anywhere. Customers can record their music CDs to the recorder/player unit with the press of one button. They can save their original CD as a backup or for other use.

Customers can recall and play any song as easily as pressing a number on a jukebox.

Customers can make a CD using any of their library of songs as simply as calling up the songs and pressing “record”. The content can be recorded in the original format if it originates from a CD or it can be converted to mp3 format, allowing the customer to make CDs with over 100 songs with nearly the same audio quality providing hours of listening pleasure in the customer's car or other location.

The recorder/player unit is constructed with the attractive appearance of a traditional jukebox, and comes as a single console just like the original jukebox with the same colorful appearance. The recorder/player unit also can easily be converted into three component parts, a beautiful player approximately 18 inches wide which will fit on any audio shelf, and two high fidelity powered speakers which can be placed anywhere in the house. Additionally, the customer can buy additional powered speakers and play back the music from the recorder/player unit in several rooms and locations using the proprietary MaGIC system.

To simplify the customer's use of the recorder/player unit there is nestled in the attractive front panel the full color touch sensitive remote control. The customer can either use the remote control while it is docked (and charging) in the recorder/player unit 12, or slide it out and take it anywhere in the house to control the music experience. This remote uses a computer quality wireless system that is able to penetrate walls and still communicate with the recorder/player unit 12. The remote can display the full information on the customer's songs, CDs or other information. It has all the features of a fully functional personal digital assistant. Using the remote, the customer can record songs from the recorder/player unit 12 to the remote, plug in a high fidelity stereo headset directly into the remote, and hear music anywhere. If the customer wants to listen to music in their home, they can send the music wirelessly directly to the remote without the fuss of recording.

The remote also has an infrared communication system and can control most other audio and video components acting as a true universal remote control. A large database of equipment identifiers is already contained in the recorder/player unit plus it can easily learn from other remotes. The remote can be used as a remote for different rooms with different components, each stored separately. Macros can be programmed into the remote.

The customer's entire remote setup is stored simultaneously on the remote and on the recorder/player unit 12 for easy recall should the remote lose its memory. Lastly, and most impressively, the remote control can be programmed via computer and the customer can trade graphics and remote control features with other users having one of the proprietary recorder/player units 12.

The customer can also purchase a complete home control option which allows the remote control and the recorder/player unit 12 to control lights, appliances and other devices in the home with the inexpensive X-10 remote control system, as well as infrared repeaters which use the wireless system built into the remote control.

The customer can connect the remote control to their home network or to a cable/DSL modem to directly and instantly access updates and service the recorder/player unit 12. If the customer does have access to the Internet in their home, a single connection on the recorder/player unit allows the customer to have the unit access additional free services and subscribe to the Internet based music distribution service.

A complete database of all available CDs comes with the recorder/player unit, and the customer can update this database automatically over the Internet. Service and feature updates are also available. Also, several of the major record labels, and other independent sources allow the customer to access songs and other material such as for emerging artists, absolutely free of charge.

The subscription service described above allows the customer to subscribe to a multi-channel (for example 30 channel) commercial-free digital quality music broadcast which includes music of all genres. The customer can access the program guide with the songs being broadcast via the Internet for a substantial period (such as one week) in advance, which allows the customer as part of their subscription price the ability to copy songs for their own use as part of their library stored on the recorder/player unit.

The subscription service also includes a tv guide for local broadcast either cable, satellite or local stations with recommendations, full program descriptions and reviews. This is downloaded to the customer's recorder/player unit automatically for so long as the customer's subscription is in place, and the guide is instantly available to the customer via their remote control unit 14. Also the customer can obtain additional remote control units and multiple remote control units can be operated at the same time.

As a result, the systems described above allow the consumer to have unparalleled access to and use of recorded music.

Thus, although there have been described particular embodiments of the present invention of a new and useful music distribution system, it is not intended that such references be construed as limitations upon the scope of this invention except as set forth in the following claims. 

1. A method of distributing music to a plurality of customers via the Internet, comprising: (a) providing each customer with a uniquely identified proprietary device for receiving, playing and recording music; (b) providing a music server computer system for distributing the music to the proprietary devices over the Internet; and (c) tracking usage of the music on the proprietary devices and reporting usage data over the Internet to the music server computer system.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: combining data reported to the music server computer system from a plurality of the proprietary devices in step (c), and collectively reporting to copyright owners on the combined usage of a plurality of customers.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein in step (c) the usage data includes data on the recording of the music on a transportable recorded media.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the transportable recorded media is a recordable CD.
 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising: embedding a unique identifier in music distributed to each proprietary device, the unique identifier identifying the specific proprietary device which received the music, so that any subsequent unauthorized copying of the music can be tracked to a responsible party in control of the specific proprietary device.
 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: distributing the music from the music server computer system to the proprietary devices in a format of reduced quality as compared to commercial pre-recorded CDs, so that a music copy recorded by one of the proprietary devices is of a lesser quality than a commercial pre-recorded CD.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the format of reduced quality is an .mp3 format.
 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising: using one of the proprietary devices to record the music by recording a copy on a transportable recorded media in a format such that the copy cannot be duplicated in a playable form.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the transportable recorded media is a recordable CD.
 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: preventing access to the music on the music server computer system by unauthorized users who are not using an authorized proprietary device. 11.-17. (canceled)
 18. A method of distributing music to a plurality of customers over the Internet, comprising: (a) providing each customer with a proprietary device for receiving, storing, playing and recording music; (b) providing a music server computer system for distributing the music to the proprietary devices over the Internet; and (c) embedding a unique identifier in music stored on each proprietary device, the unique identifier corresponding to the specific proprietary device which stored the music, so that any subsequent unauthorized copying of the recorded music can be tracked to a responsible party in control of the specific proprietary device.
 19. The method of claim 18, wherein: in step (c), the unique identifier is embedded in the music by the music server computer system prior to distributing the music to each proprietary device.
 20. The method of claim 18, wherein: in step (c), the unique identifier is embedded into the music by each proprietary device. 21-56. (canceled) 